Protective cover for a data storage disc and method of use

Abstract

A protective cover for a data storage disc such as a compact disc (CD) includes a disc which has a central retainer for engaging the hole in the data storage disc. The protective cover may placed on both the data storage side and the opposite side of the data storage disc. In one embodiment the retainer consists of a plurality of upstanding members disposed on one side of the protective cover, and a corresponding plurality of cavities disposed on the other side of the protective cover. The cavities of one protective cover receive the upstanding members of another protective cover so that a plurality of protective covers may be stacked.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application is a division of U.S. application Ser. No. 10 / 330,316, filed Dec. 27, 2002 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,901,608.TECHNICAL FIELD[0002]The present invention generally pertains to data storage discs such as compact discs (CDs), and more particularly to a protective cover and method for the protecting the discs from damage.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]Devices for protecting data storage discs from damage such as scratches are well known in the art. One such device is the “jewel case” which usually comprises a clear plastic case in which the data storage disc is placed. Carrying pouches are also available for holding a data storage disc. Both of these devices are bulky. Other devices exist which are placed against the data storage side of the data storage disc. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,123,191 shows a compact disk holder in the shape of a flat disk made from a resilient material and including a central resilient hub and a felt b...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008]The present invention is directed to a protective cover for a data storage disc, such as a compact disc (CD). The protective cover is used to guard the recorded side of the CD from being scratched, and can also be used to protect the non-recorded side. Additionally, the protective cover protects the edge of the CD so that warping cannot occur if the CD is inadvertently dropped. The present invention is reusable, easily transportable and inexpensive to make. It also allows for easy stacking of compact discs, saves space and is much faster to access. The protective cover is useful in mailing or otherwise transporting a CD. The protective cover is preferably fabricated from a clear polymer through which a user can view the CD.

[0016]wherein the cavities of a first protective cover may receive the upstanding members of a second protective cover, thereby enabling the two covers to lie flatly against one another.

[0018]In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the disc has an outer radius which is slightly larger than the first radius of the edge of the data storage disc, so that the protective cover will protect the edge of the data storage device.

[0019]In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the outside surface of the disc has a rough area, so that when the outside surface is laid upon a smooth surface, the rough area will prevent a vacuum from being formed between the protective cover and the smooth surface, thereby improving handling of the protective cover.

Problems solved by technology

Both of these devices are bulky.

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